Gas Stations and Refueling in Japan

When returning a rental car, it is generally required to return the car with a full tank of fuel. By knowing the different types of gas stations, the types of fuel, and the procedures for refueling will ensure a smooth experience when making a return.
This article explains the different refueling procedures and other important points to know in an easy-to-understand way.

Check With Your Rental Company for Gas Stations to Use When Returning

When returning a rental car, customers are required to refuel at a gas station designated by the rental car store or at a gas station located close to the store. Therefore, customers are encouraged to check with their rental company in advance.
By not refueling at a gas station that meets the above requirements, customers may be asked to refuel again by the rental company.

Fuel Types

There are three main types of fuels used for cars in Japan: regular, high-octane, and diesel. While most rental cars use regular fuel, customers are encouraged to check with their rental company if they are unsure. Please be careful in choosing the correct fuel type when filling up the car.

Self-Service Gas Stations Are the Norm

Gas stations in Japan can be either fully serviced (manned) or self-service, however most gas stations are self-service.
The differences are as follows.

Staff at these gas stations undertake the refueling tasks for you. This is a recommended option for those who are unsure about refueling in Japan.

• As you enter the gas station, staff will direct you to where to stop your car.
• Once you have stopped your car, open the window and tell the staff the type of fuel you want to refuel with and the amount (full tank, ¥0 worth, etc.). Then, turn the engine off and open the fuel cap.
• Staff will then proceed to refuel your car. They may also wipe your windows and take any trash you may have in your car.
• Once the refueling has finished, staff will guide you through the payment process, and once the payment is made, you are free to leave.

Customers to these gas stations undertake the entire process, from refueling to payment, by themselves.

1. After you arrive at the gas station, pull up to the fuel pump and stop the car at the stop sign.
   Be sure to stop at the pump that matches the side of the car's fuel cap. Stopping at the pump on the opposite side of the fuel cap can make refueling the car difficult.
2. Once you have stopped the car and turned the engine off, you will then operate the screen, where you will select the type of fuel and the amount.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to make your payment (credit cards, cash, prepaid transportation cards are accepted).
4. After completing your payment, take the nozzle, insert it into the fuel port, and squeeze the trigger to start refueling.
   There are three nozzles based on the types of fuels.
   • Regular (red)
   • High-Octane (yellow)
   • Diesel (green)
5. Close the fuel cap once you have finished refueling. Also, please remember to collect any change if you have paid in cash.
   

How to Refuel

The fuel cap is located on either the left or right rear passenger door side. The cap can be opened by pushing on it directly or by operating a lever or button inside the car.

Remove the tank cap and place it on the cap holder located on the fuel pump (caps connected to a cord can be left as they are).
After selecting the fuel type and paying on the fuel pump, take the fuel nozzle. The nozzles are color-coded by fuel type: red (regular), yellow (high-octane), and green (diesel).
Insert the nozzle into the fuel tank and squeeze the trigger to start refueling.

Once the fuel meter has reached the designated amount, return the nozzle to its original spot. A receipt will be printed from the fuel pump, and once you have collected the receipt, the refueling process is complete.
If you have paid in cash, change may be given, so please remember to collect the change as mentioned in step 4.

Change can be collected at the automatic change machine located near the fuel pumps.
Scan the barcode printed on the receipt (see step 3) at the automatic change machine to receive your change.

Post-refueling Precautions

Be sure to keep your receipt with you after refueling.
You may be required to show it to staff when returning the car.